By Morlu F. Freeman Sr.
YANGBALAHUN TOWN, Wanhassa District, Lofa County — Police in Lofa County are investigating the death of a government school teacher, Joseph K. Ndorbor, who reportedly died on his family’s cocoa farm under circumstances involving his son, John K. Ndorbor.
According to reports, the father and son left for their cocoa farm early Friday morning to carry out clearing work. Later that day, residents noticed that John had returned to town alone and questioned him about his father’s whereabouts.
John told townspeople that while he and his father were working on the farm, his father allegedly threatened to kill him, although no reason was given. He said he immediately began to run while his father chased him with a cutlass. According to John, his father later slipped and fell, and the cutlass cut his neck, resulting in his death.
“That is what made me come to town to explain. I first explained it to my sister,” a local chief recounted, quoting John K. Ndorbor.
Police were immediately informed, and a 15-member jury headed by Morris D. Teah was later assembled to examine the case.
The jury reportedly concluded that there were signs of foul play, noting that the deceased had a cut on his chin and another wound on his neck, injuries members said were inconsistent with the account provided by the son.
The family later requested the release of the body for burial, and police honored the request.
John K. Ndorbor is currently in police custody while investigations continue. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to obtain a full statement from him. Kolahun Police Commander Soko Konneh said the suspect is being held at an undisclosed location for security reasons.
As the investigation continues, some residents remain convinced that the young man used an axe to kill his father on the farm. Police, however, have urged members of the public to remain calm while the matter is being investigated.
